What should I do if a dog has a tick behind the ear? - briefly
Grasp the tick near the skin behind the ear with fine‑point tweezers and pull upward with steady, even pressure; then clean the area with antiseptic, dispose of the parasite, and monitor the dog for irritation or illness, seeking veterinary care if removal is difficult or symptoms appear.
What should I do if a dog has a tick behind the ear? - in detail
If a canine presents a tick lodged behind the ear, act promptly. First, gather a fine‑pointed pair of tweezers or a commercial tick‑removal tool, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, and a clean container with a lid.
Secure the animal’s head to prevent sudden movements; a second person can gently hold the dog’s muzzle while you work. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding compression of the body. Pull upward with steady, even pressure, keeping the instrument parallel to the skin surface. Do not twist or jerk, as this can leave mouthparts embedded.
After removal, place the tick in the container, add a few drops of alcohol, and seal it for possible identification or testing. Clean the bite site with antiseptic, then apply a mild topical antibiotic ointment if irritation is evident.
Monitor the area for the next 24–48 hours. Signs such as redness, swelling, discharge, or the dog’s persistent scratching warrant veterinary evaluation. Additionally, observe the dog for systemic symptoms: fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or joint pain, which may indicate disease transmission.
Schedule a veterinary appointment if any abnormal signs appear, or if the tick could not be removed completely. The veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics, anti‑inflammatory medication, or specific treatments for tick‑borne illnesses.
Implement preventive measures to reduce future infestations: apply a veterinarian‑approved topical repellent or collar, maintain regular grooming, and inspect the dog’s ears and surrounding skin after outdoor activities, especially in wooded or grassy areas.
Document the incident, including date, location, and tick identification results, to assist the veterinarian in diagnosing potential infections.